Ready to Lead Leadership Academy

Early Learning Indiana, in partnership with McCormick Center for Early Childhood Leadership at National Louis University, is inviting new school leaders to grow their leadership skills through a three-part professional development series. This series is generously supported by Lilly Endowment Inc.

Ready to Lead Leadership Academy

Early Learning Indiana, in partnership with McCormick Center for Early Childhood Leadership at National Louis University, is inviting new school leaders to grow their leadership skills through a three-part professional development series.

Who Should Attend?

This series is for new or aspiring school leaders looking to grow their leadership skills in early childhood education. By attending you will:

Gain New Leadership Skills

Network with Other Professionals Like You

Earn 21 Professional Development Clock Hours

About the Series

Learn more about each session and register to attend below.

  • This series will be conducted by the McCormick Center for Early Childhood Leadership. Learn more about them here.
  • This series is limited to a group of 50 early childhood education professionals who are ready and able to attend all three sessions. 
  • Sessions are in-person and will take place in downtown Indianapolis at Vision Loft Events, 235 N Delaware St, Indianapolis, IN 46204.
  • Free parking, breakfast and lunch will be provided to all participants.

About the Series

Learn more about each session and register to attend below. 

  • This series will be conducted by the McCormick Center for Early Childhood Leadership. Learn more about them here.
  • This series is limited to a group of 50 early childhood education professionals who are ready and able to attend all three sessions. 
  • Sessions are in-person and will take place in downtown Indianapolis at Vision Loft Events, 235 N Delaware St, Indianapolis, IN 46204.
  • Free parking, breakfast and lunch will be provided to all participants.

Session 1: New Role, New Relationships: Learning to Lead

Date: Oct. 17, 2023, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET

Administrators new to their role face unique challenges and are often unprepared for the shift in relationships, skills, and responsibilities. This session will focus on naming the challenges and examining strategies to help administrators navigate the changes that come with their leadership role. Participants will practice communication skills, explore time management strategies, and review planning methods to enhance productivity and become more effective leaders. 

Session 2: From the Inside Out: The Power of Reflection and Self-Awareness

Date: Nov. 14, 2023, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET

Through reflection, leaders gain insight into the issues and challenges that confront them. Gaining awareness of self and others, which is strengthened through reflective practice, is a key tool for Leadership Essentials and one of the domains in the Whole Leadership Framework. Yet, the challenges and frenetic pace that characterize the professional lives of new administrators leaves little time for reflection. This session provides a focused opportunity for participants to reflect on their strengths, examine their unique styles, and gain clarity about their purpose and passions. By using resources to support becoming a self-mentor, leaders can achieve personal and professional fulfillment. Participants will also review strategies to reduce stress and avoid burnout. 

Session 3: Leadership in Action: How Effective Directors Get Things Done

Date: Dec. 12, 2023, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET

This session explores the concept of leadership in the context of early childhood education. It looks at the multi-faceted role of the director and the skills and competencies needed to nurture leadership at all levels of an organization. Participants will define their unique leadership style, identify the values and beliefs that shape their leadership behavior, and gather strategies to support effective leadership to lead with confidence and integrity.  

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need to attend all three sessions? 
A: Yes, this is intended as a three-part series.

Q: Will I earn any professional development hours for attending these sessions?
A: You will earn 21 professional development clock hours.

Q: How much does this series cost?
A: This series is completely free thanks to the support of Lilly Endowment Inc.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need to attend all three sessions? 
A: Yes, this is intended as a three-part series.

Q: Will I earn any professional development hours for attending these sessions?
A: You will earn 21 professional development clock hours.